Where does the bitter orange tree come from?
sour orange originates from the southern Himalayas. Cultivated in Mesopotamia (current Iraq and Syria) during Antiquity, it became perfectly acclimatized to the Mediterranean regions. It is found today throughout the world, including South America and Oceania. This tree can bloom up to twice a year if the fall is mild!
What are the benefits of bitter orange?
The health benefits of bitter orange are numerous:
- Facilitate digestion: bitter orange stimulates the stomach and promotes the production of gastric juices. This fruit also relieves bloating and digestive heaviness, in particular thanks to linalool.
- Calm anxiety, agitation and overwork: just like the lavender, the sour orange tree has relaxing and tranquilizing properties. It helps to treat the problems ofinsomnia and fight againsthigh blood pressure.
- Aid in weight loss: this citrus fruit is an essential ingredient in slimming herbal teas. It helps burn fat.
What are the forms of use of sour orange?
The fruit of the bitter orange tree, thebitter orangecannot be eaten alone like other varieties of oranges but its zest can be used in many preparations: jam, marmalade or syrup.
As for the bitter orange flower, it is used to makeOrange tree Flower waterappreciated in cosmetics as well as in baking, and sour orange flower essential oil. It was around 1680 that the Princess of Nerola democratized the essence of bitter orange as a perfume for the bath. Hence the term “neroli“, used so far.
Finally, the distilled leaves give thebitter orange petitgrain essential oil.
How to use sour orange?
Depending on your needs, sour orange can be used in all its forms:
- Herbal tea : Pour a tablespoon of dried sour orange leaves into a cup of hot water. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes. You can drink two to three cups a day.
- Bigarade petitgrain essential oil: apply a drop to your wrist and inhale deeply. Repeat the operation three times a day for three weeks. You can also combine it with the essential oil oftarragon (one drop of each to be taken on a neutral tablet) in case of sleep disorders.
- Bitter orange blossom water: after the shower, spray on the face and neck then leave to penetrate for 2 min.
- The capsules: swallow two capsules in the morning and two at noon, at mealtimes and in a large glass of water.
Need clarification on dosage? Do not hesitate to ask your doctor for advice!
What are the contraindications of bitter orange?
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not use bitter orange petitgrain essential oil. The same goes for people allergic to linalool, a substance that can cause skin disorders such aseczema or hives.
Finally, the people with asthma should seek medical advice before any use or consumption of bitter orange.
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